Red-Headed River Turtle

Red-headed river turtle, Podocnemis erythrocephala. These are native to swampy areas surrounding the Rio Negro (black river) in Brazil and Venezuela. While once over-collected for the pet trade, they are now rebounding thanks to legal protection. You still see them for sale once in a while at petshops that cater to more exotic pets.

Red Headed River Turtle

For you turtle lovers, here is a picture of a red headed river turtle, Podocnemis erythrocephala. Erythro refers to red and cephala to head. This one seemed to have a permanent smile. Happy hump day eve.